Siblings
Older siblings learn about sharing, life-long love and friendship.
For many, the thought of having a second child can be overwhelming. There may be fears about being disloyal to your first child and unable to love another child in the same way.
Rest assured, a new sibling adds to the growth and development of the whole family. The firstborn learns about sharing, lifelong love and friendship. You cannot be sure about how your firstborn will react, but your attitude and way of handling the situation can influence the development of family bonds.
Depending on your child’s age, start preparing the sibling for the new baby during your pregnancy. Books are an extremely useful medium. The older the child, the earlier you can begin. Talk to the sibling about being separated from you while you are in hospital. Make sure that the temporary caregiver is supportive and caring, and encourage a relationship of trust and familiarity.
Life will never be the same again for the whole family. The constant demands of a young baby and the attention a new baby receives, can be shattering to an older child. Regression is a common reaction. You need to exercise a lot of patience and understanding during this time. Remember, adjusting to a new baby is one of life’s normal growing experiences for all members of the family.
Related articles
Checklist - maternity ward suitcase
*Check whether the maternity ward has a list of the items you will need.
Items for hospital stay
5 mins to read
Medication for pain relief
In a normal, uncomplicated labour and delivery, the use of medication is not always necessary. Your own resources are often enough.
5 mins to read
Labour
As labour starts, a mother’s mood changes and she becomes less aware of what is happening outside her body, and more aware of what is happening inside her body.
5 mins to read
Second Trimester
Physical changes
4 mins to read
Food choices for a healthy pregnancy
-
5 mins to read
Checklist - preparing to bring baby home
Clothing
5 mins to read
Signs of labour
The following signs of labour may occur in any order.
1. Progressive contractions
5 mins to read
Third trimester
Physical changes
5 mins to read
Prenatal Checklist
Preparing for your prenatal appointments is important. Find out our prenatal checklist, so you can ask the right questions to your healthcare provider.
1 min to read
Father’s role
Sharing the adventure of pregnancy, birth and parenting can make this one of life’s most rewarding experiences.
5 mins to read
Caesarean birth
A Caesarean birth is the delivery of your baby through an abdominal uterine incision, instead of vaginally.
5 mins to read
The third stage of labour
This stage lasts from the birth of the baby until the placenta is delivered, usually from 5–20 m
5 mins to read
Screening tests
Screening ultrasound scan
2 mins to read
Single parent
Today an increasing number of women are facing the challenges of pregnancy, birth and parenthood alone. This may be through personal choice or circumstantial.
2 mins to read
Variations and interventions in labour and birth
Each woman’s labour is unique and unpredictable. It is important therefore that you are prepared for all the possible eventualities and you keep an open mind.
1 min to read
Second stage of labour
This stage begins when the cervix reaches complete dilation and effacement, and it ends with the birth of the baby.
5 mins to read
Nutrition during pregnancy
By taking responsibility for your body, you can maximise your level of wellbeing and enjoy good health.
Good nutrition is of the utmost importance during your pregnancy
5 mins to read
Vaginal birth
In most instances, the baby’s head is the presenting part that moves into your pelvis before labour begins.
5 mins to read
Labour support
Labour support is a concept that has been around for thousands of years.
5 mins to read
